Arguments for NOT pardoning Scooter:

[babylonsister]

http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/archives/11078.html#more-11078

snip//

There are a variety of arguments against a pardon (besides the obvious one — Libby committed a number of serious crimes and deserves a just punishment). The NYT raised one.

A former senior administration official with his own ties to the case said Mr. Libby had failed to meet the general standard for a pardon by not showing contrition or serving any time. This official also noted that Mr. Libby had also been found guilty of lying to investigators, the same offense that led to the impeachment of Mr. Clinton.

The former official, who requested anonymity to speak frankly about the president, said: “It would show a deep disregard for the rule of law if he was to do it right now, when there has been no remorse shown by a convicted felon and no time has been served. How’s this going to fit in his long-term legacy?”

This probably isn’t the most persuasive of explanations — Bush’s disregard for the rule of law is already legendary.

But there are other reasons. First, Bush has said repeatedly that he’d just love to talk about what transpired in this scandal, but darn it all, he just can’t. It’s an “ongoing legal matter.” If he pardons Libby, it officially wraps up the controversy. His one and only dodge would no longer work.

Second, a pardon would bring the scandal into the Oval Office (even more so). It would necessarily give the impression that Libby lied and obstructed justice in order to shield Bush and Cheney from their role in an even bigger crime. Even now, it’s frustratingly unclear why, exactly, Libby decided to lie so brazenly, which suggests that he’s covering up a more serious matter that might involve his only two WH bosses (the president and vice president). A pardon would exacerbate these suspicions.

So, what’s it going to be? Will Bush pardon Libby? If he does, what’s the political fallout? If he doesn’t, will the far-right GOP base ever forgive him?

[dennis4868]

1. Clinton...

was never found guily of perjury or even lying to investigators.

[Buzz Clik]

2. "It would show a deep disregard for the rule of law if he was to (pardon Libby) it right now"

Oh, well then.

Consider it done.